Penile Curvature

What Is Peyronie’s Disease?

This is a connective tissue disorder involving the growth of fibrous plaques in the soft tissue of the penis. The scar tissue forms in a layer of the penis called tunica albuginea. It affects about 5% of men.

Signs And Symptoms

Plaques – these are firm and thickened area that can be felt under the skin of the penis

Pain

Abnormal curvature of the penis during the erect phase hence making sexual intercourse difficult.

About 30% of men with peyronie’s disease can also develop scar tissue formation in other parts of the body such as hand a condition called Dupuytren’s contracture.

Diagnosis

This is done by taking a history outlining the curvature of the penis and also by feeling for fibrous plaque on the penis.

Causes

It is thought that minor trauma or injury to the penis through sexual activity results in inflammation and hence scar tissue formation. This happens gradually over a period of time. The patient is commonly unaware of any trauma or injury.

Treatment

There have been many treatments suggested and tried. The vast majority have not proven to be effective. About 12% of men will improve spontaneously over time. 40 to 50% will get worse, the remaining 40% will remain stable.

Surgery

A surgical procedure called Nesbit’s procedure is effective in correcting the curvature. This is where plication sutures are placed in a location opposite to the location of the plaque hence reducing the curvature of the penis.